Other hormones, see H - Systemic hormonal preparations, excl. sex hormones and insulins.Sex hormones used only in the treatment of cancer (often selected strengths) are classified in L - Antineoplastic and immunomodulating agents.

The DDDs of many of the hormone preparations may vary considerably with the route of administration due to substantial differences in bioavailability. The DDDs of depot preparations are calculated as the dose divided by the dosing interval.

G03A - Hormonal Contraceptives for Systemic Use

This group comprises hormonal preparations, which are used as contraceptives. Similar hormonal preparations, which are used for the treatment of e.g. menopausal symptoms and menstrual irregularities, are classified in G03F.Combinations of cyproterone and estrogen also used as contraceptives are, however, classified in G03HB.Intravaginal and intrauterine devices containing hormones are classified in G02B.Transdermal patches for contraception are classified here.

The DDDs are based on use as contraceptives.The DDDs of combined preparations of estrogen and progestogen and plain progestogen products are based on use in menstrual cycles of 28 days. Thus, the DDD is 0.75 and 1 UD for 21 and 28 tablets cycle package, respectively. The same principle is used for transdermal patches.For the 24 tablets cycle packages the DDD is based on continuous use for 120 days and a 4-days tablet free interval. Thus, the DDD is 0.967 UD.The DDDs for preparations only used in postcoital contraception are based on the course dose.

G03AA - Progestogens and Estrogens, Fixed Combinations

This group comprises preparations, which contain fixed combinations of progestogen and estrogens.The preparations are classified at 5th levels according to the progestogen.Products containing mestranol (a prodrug of ethinylestradiol) are classified together with ethinylestradiol.